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They say that there aren’t many ways to reinvent the wheel. However, don’t tell the designers at Tekto Knives that. Like many of today’s modern high-end USA-based knifemakers, the brand was born out of necessity. Tekto’s founders found the usual knives unreliable in the harsh conditions of northeast Maine.
It would have been easy to build the usual outdoor knives to their preferred specifications and be done with it. However, Tekto set out to do more than that. Many states have overly restrictive regulations that don’t allow carrying auto knives based on arbitrary blade length limits. Knowing this, Tekto set about combating the problem. The solution was the A2 Badger OTF knife. Coincidentally, the blade is one of the most useful little EDC knives we’ve ever seen.
A2 Badger Overview
Despite the usefulness of automatic knives, lawmakers have long villainized them, especially out-the-front designs, which are more heavily restricted than any other. This has resulted in some strange regulations. California’s weird laws allow the carry of automatic knives under 2 inches in length. However, not many knives fit those criteria and the ones that do are of poor quality.
“We wanted it to stand out from the limited selection of mini OTFs by creating a knife that’s as tough and reliable as a tank,” Tekto founder Marko M. said. “While it was created with these restrictions in mind, it quickly gained popularity even in states without such limitations.”
Since double-action auto knives require careful engineering to function properly, the A2 Badger was a unique challenge for Tekto’s designers.
“Downsizing the A2 Badger required a complete redesign,” Marko said. “Every internal component had to be scaled down to fit the smaller frame while maintaining the reliability and performance Tekto is known for. The biggest challenge was balancing a slim, ergonomic handle with the functional demands of a double-action OTF.”
It’s safe to say that Tekto accomplished that. The A2 Badger is slim at 0.48 inches, making it quick and easy to slip into a pocket. The blade, at only 1.85 inches, is tiny. Thanks to the use of D2 steel, it doesn't skimp on quality. Marko said this was partially due to Maine’s salty and humid conditions, which can accelerate corrosion. However, that wasn’t the only factor.
“D2 steel was chosen for its exceptional edge retention, toughness, and ease of sharpening, making it ideal for users who need a blade that stays sharp longer and performs reliably under demanding conditions,” Marko said.
Additionally, Tekto is dedicated to protecting the steel of its blades. Even its S35VN and MagnaCut offerings are given a titanium coating for extra corrosion resistance. This also reduces glare for tactical scenarios.
Another key part of the A2’s design is the button. Every double-action OTF needs a quality one, but the smaller profile requires more thought to make it ergonomic. The Badger’s button design is asymmetrical, with a gradual ramp-up on the part that pushes the blade open. This was by design.
“The asymmetrical design provides a natural thumb placement, reducing strain during repeated use,” Marko said. “The ridges were carefully calibrated to offer just the right amount of grip secure without being overly aggressive.”
Two other minor features that add to the versatility are the reversible pocket clip and the built-in glassbreaker on the handle. Making the clip reversible effectively makes the entire knife ambidextrous.
Hands-On With the Badger A2
The first thing that shocked me about the A2 is its lightweight, compact nature. Tekto got the weight down to just 2.18 ounces. Combine that weight with a tiny, 3.30-inch handle, and it’s a true joy to carry in a pocket. It’s a comfortable EDC carry that practically disappeared into my pants or jacket pocket until needed. This makes it an ideal option for anyone who needs a knife that’s low profile in nature. The pocket clip works beautifully, although I also found the knife comfortable to carry without using the clip.
I was a little worried that the shorter handle would hurt the ergonomics. However, the profile is highly conducive to the shape of my hand. The best part is how naturally that asymmetrical button falls into a natural place for my thumb. Meanwhile, the grooves provide a solid textured grip. As someone who seems to have perpetual butterfingers, I’d say it’s a solid-feeling handle.
Regarding operation, the Badger A2 is crisp, fast, and fun. The button's resistance feels perfect, and operating with both my dominant right and non-dominant left hand is seamless. After I’ve worked the double-action hundreds of times, it still feels snappy and instantly responsive. I’ve used other high-end autos that get a bit mushy after a while.
I also like using the mini-Tanto as an EDC blade. Its point is extra fine, making it easy to make precision cuts and other fine-detail work. This is an excellent little utility blade. It works amazingly for light cordage, cardboard packages, and light plastics. I also quickly sliced tougher materials like braided fishing lines in a single cut. This knife excels at snipping tiny, stubborn zip ties because the fine point slips under the tight bands nicely. Through it all, the factory edge is holding up nicely. I haven’t needed to touch it up yet.
The finish has also held up beautifully. Even after weeks of use and abuse, it hasn’t shown a single sign of wear. The only feature I didn’t test hands-on was the glassbreaker. However, given the solid construction of the rest of the knife, I have no reason to doubt its effectiveness in an emergency.
Conclusion
Tekto clearly put a lot of thought into the A2 Badger. This knife was designed by knife enthusiasts who obviously love blades and work with them daily. The A2 might be the single most useful EDC blade that I’ve tested in recent years.
It is rather impressive that Tekto could compact such a thoughtful design into such a small package. Equally remarkable is that they can offer it for under $150, especially since the assembly portion happens here in the USA. Finding a quality USA-made automatic at this price point is virtually impossible. Despite its compact nature, the Badger is a highly functional and comfortable EDC blade that works as hard as advertised.
